Thrift Store Opening
From My Heart Takes Former La Sumida Site
A new, bigger From My Heart Thrift Store opening soon on Milpas Street may go some way toward filling the void created in Santa Barbara when State Street’s last two venerable thrifts decamped last year for less pricey pastures. The former site of La Sumida Gardens, near the roundabout at the base of Milpas, across from the Trader Joe’s shopping center, is currently under reconstruction to house From My Heart’s second incarnation. From My Heart owners Boris Baquierizo and James Henry have a two-year lease, and they look forward to their spacious new venue, which at 3,000 square feet are about twice the size of the Anacapa store. James in particular looks forward to holding fashion shows, and bringing in live theatrical and music events, as well as a boutique within the store featuring designer clothes.
Henry and Baquierizo, who vacated the Anacapa Street location June 29, now eagerly encourage people to come by with contributions of used kitchenware, clothing, and, especially furniture, which is the real moneymaker. The store does pickups-call 884-8700–but of course prefers for people to drop off donations at the rear of the store. The entrance is on Milpas Street, next to Rusty’s Pizza. The Grand Opening is scheduled for Saturday, July 28, at 10 a.m.
From My Heart will donate a portion of its profits to the Pacific Pride Foundation, which provides services for people living with HIV and AIDS. Details of that contract have yet to be worked out.
